What is the governing document of Phi Kappa Tau?

• A. Bylaws
• B. Constitution
• C. Charter
• D. Rules of Order

Answer: (B)

The governing document is the Constitution, which serves as the foundational framework for Phi Kappa Tau. It establishes the fraternity’s purpose, the basic structure of the organization, and the authority of the national body. Because it sets the highest rules and principles, all other documents must align with it.

Bylaws are the rules adopted under the Constitution to handle day-to-day operations—detailing processes like elections, chapter duties, and dues. They fill in specifics but are subordinate to the Constitution and can be amended as needed within its framework.

A charter is the document that grants a local chapter the right to operate under the national organization; it confirms existence rather than governing the entire fraternity.

Rules of Order govern meeting procedures and how business is conducted, not the overall governance of the organization.

So, the Constitution is the primary governing document.